User Manual for NEPTUNE 4 PLUS 3D Printer

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the ELEGOO Product!

This User Manual has been provided for your convenience. Please read this instruction manual carefully before using your new printer, as the precautions, information, and tips can better help you to avoid the risk of incorrect product setup and usage.

For any questions or issues not covered in this manual, please contact ELEGOO customer support via email at: 3dp@elegoo.com. The ELEGOO team is always ready to provide quality service.

To provide the best product experience, supplemental information can be found via:

1. The USB Drive: Contains a copy of this manual and all required software.
2. The ELEGOO official website: www.elegoo.com for related equipment operation, contact information, etc.

Important Notes & Safety Precautions

1. Do not place the printer in vibrating or unstable environments, as shaking affects print quality.
2. Do not touch the nozzle and heated bed when the printer is working to prevent burns.
3. After printing, use tools to clean residual filament from the nozzle while it is still warm. Avoid touching the nozzle directly.
4. Perform regular maintenance. Clean the printer body with a dry cloth when powered off to remove dust and sticky material.
5. Be careful of high-speed moving parts on 3D printers to avoid injury.
6. Children must be supervised by adults when using the machine.
7. In case of emergency, cut off the power directly.
8. Ensure the golden PEI sheet is properly placed before leveling, homing, or printing to prevent nozzle collisions.
9. Ground the machine during operation to avoid the risk of electrical shock.
10. If the machine is not in use for a long period, turn it off and unplug the power cord.

Troubleshooting Guide

Stepper Motor Issues (X/Y/Z Axis)

Problem: Motor not moving or making noise when zeroed.

• Check for loose stepper motor cables and recheck wiring connections.
• Ensure limit switches are triggering properly and check for interference on shafts. Verify limit switch wiring is secure.
• Loose timing belts can cause rough motion or noise. Adjust belt tension using the rotary knob.

Nozzle Head Assembly Extrusion Anomalies

• Check that the extruder stepper motor cable is not loose or disconnected.
• Verify the set screw of the extruder gear is firmly engaged to the motor shaft.
• Ensure adequate heat dissipation for the nozzle assembly; check temperatures and cooling fan operation.
• For clogged nozzles: Heat the nozzle to 230°C, push filament by hand to clear potential clogs, or use a fine needle while the nozzle is heating.

Model Adhesion Issues (PEI Sheet) or Warping

Problem: Model does not adhere to the build platform or shows warping.

• First-layer printing is crucial for adhesion. If the nozzle-to-platform distance is over 0.2mm, adhesion will be reduced.
• In Cura, try setting the first layer option to [Brim] to improve adhesion and reduce edge warping or lifting.

Misaligned Printed Layers

• Reduce Print Speed if the hot end assembly or print speed is set too fast.
• Check if X/Y axis belts are too loose or the synchronizer pulley is not secured tightly.
• The current to the drive might be too low.

Stringing or Ringing

• Increase retraction distance in Cura before slicing.
• If retraction speed is too slow, increase it in Cura.
• When slicing, enable "Z Hop When Retracted" and set "Z Hop Height" to approximately 0.25mm.
• High printing temperatures can cause filament to become sticky and stringy, leading to poor print quality. Lower the printing temperature slightly.

Machine Parameters

Printer Specifications

• Printer Type: FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
• Maximum Build Volume: 320x320x385 mm³
• Print Precision: ±0.1mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm
• Print Speed: 30~500mm/s
• Regular printing speed: 250mm/s
• Maximum acceleration: 12000mm/s²

Operating Temperature Specifications

• Ambient Environment Temperature: 5°C~40°C
• Maximum Temperature of Nozzle: 300°C
• Maximum Temperature of Hotbed: 100°C

Software Specifications

• Slicer Software: Cura
• Input File Format: STL, OBJ
• Output File Format: G-code
• Interface: USB Drive, LAN (Network), WIFI

Power Supply Specifications

• Input Power: 100-120V/220-240V; 50/60Hz
• Output Power: 24V

Physical Specifications

• Machine Size: 578*533*640mm
• Net Weight: 14.4kg

Machine Component Diagrams

Diagram illustrating the main components of the ELEGOO Neptune 4 Plus 3D printer, including:

• Filament Spool Holder
• Filament Detector/Filament Detection Sensor
• The Rear Cooling Fan
• Spool Holder Arm
• Support Strut
• Z-Axis Rod
• X-Axis Stepper Motor
• X-Axis Belt Tensioner
• Coupling
• Nozzle(Hotend) Assembly Unit
• Build Platform
• Touch screen
• LAN(Network) Port Interface
• WIFI Signal Receiver
• Type-C Interface
• USB Drive Port
• Z-Axis Stepper Motor
• Y-Axis Belt Tensioner

Packing List

Diagrams and lists detailing the printer's Base Unit (01) and Gantry Frame Unit (02), along with smaller components like the screen, spool holder, filament detector, cooling fan, printhead, and power cable. A list of included fasteners and tools is also provided.

Fasteners

• (HM5*45) 4pcs
• (PM4*50) 3pcs
• (PM4*20) 5pcs
• (PM4*18) 2pcs
• (PM3*14) 3pcs
• (PM4*8) 3pcs
• (HM4*M3*3) 1pc
• (PM3*8) 2pcs
• (FW M5*18*1) 2pcs

Tools

• USB Drive
• Wrench Set
• Screwdriver Set
• Allen Wrench Set (1.5/2.0/2.5/3.0/4.0)
• Cable
• Small Parts Box

Note: Accessories are subject to actual products; pictures are for reference only.

Machine Setup & Installation

Refer to the included USB Drive for a setup and installation instructional video.

Step 1: Attach Printhead Assembly

From the rear, attach the printhead assembly using two PM3 x 14 screws through the cable strain-relief bracket and two PM3 x 8 screws to affix the underside of the printhead.

Diagram: Shows printhead assembly attachment with screws.

Step 2: Install Gantry Frame

Diagrams show attaching the Gantry Frame Unit (02) to the Base Unit (01) using HM5*45 screws.

Step 3: Attach Components

Diagrams show attaching components like the screen support block (03), screen (04), spiral cable (05), spool holder (06), and spool holder arm (07) using PM4*20 screws.

Step 4: Connect Cables

Diagram shows connecting flat cables, noting installation direction and releasing protective corners of the socket.

Step 5: Install Filament Detection Sensor

Diagram shows installing the filament detection sensor (08) using HM4*M3*3 and PM4*8 screws.

Step 6: Cable Management

Diagram shows installing a cable clamp. Organize cables and bunch them together before securing the clamp. Ensure enough slack for the hotend's movement.

Step 7: Connect Motors and Sensors

Diagram shows connecting the Y-axis stepper motor and other components using PM4*50 screws.

Step 8: Connect Mainboard Wiring

Diagram shows connecting the Filament Detection Sensor, X-Axis Stepper Motor, and Z-Axis Stepper Motor to the mainboard. It also highlights the voltage selection switch (115V/230V) on the power supply.

Supplementary Introduction

Special Case: Adjusting Platform Stability

If the printing platform is shaky or loose due to transportation, use an open-end wrench to unscrew the hexagonal isolation column under the platform until the Y-axis slider plate slides smoothly without shaking.

Similarly, adjust the hexagonal isolation column underneath the printhead if it wobbles. Isolation columns on the gantry sides can also be adjusted.

Diagrams show using a wrench to adjust isolation columns for platform and printhead stability.

Display Screen Operation Introduction

The printer features a touch screen interface for operation.

Home Screen

The Home Screen provides access to Print Files, Prepare Printer, Settings, and Leveling functions.

Print Files

Displays G-code files. Allows navigation between pages using Left & Right Page Keys.

Prepare Printer

Allows control over movement (distance, home axes, unlock motors) and extruder settings.

Settings Screen

Provides options for Language Selection, WIFI Connection, Lighting Control, Fan Control, Motor Unlock, Filament Detector Control, Restore Default Settings, Machine Information, and Advanced Settings.

Printer Leveling

Displays leveling toggle (e.g., 36/121 points), temperature readings, compensation settings, and the 36-point level display.

Rear Cooling Fan Operation

From the Home Screen, select Print, then the Fan Icon to adjust cooling fan settings. Modes include Silent (60%), Normal (80%), and Sport (100%). The fan turns off in Silent mode.

Diagrams show fan mode selection.

Print Mode Introduction

During printing, adjust the printing mode via the speed icon. Modes correspond to different speed, acceleration, and fan settings.

Diagrams show print mode selection (e.g., Mute, Balanced, Sport).

Vibration Pattern Optimization

Recommended after first use or after moving/replacing parts. Performed on X and Y axes. Do not shake the machine during testing.

Screenshots show the process for X-axis and Y-axis vibration detection.

Auto-Leveling Procedure

Calibrate the distance between the platform and nozzle, approximately the thickness of an A4 paper.

1. Power on the printer and select [Level].
2. Printer axes home. Place an A4 paper between the nozzle and platform.
3. Adjust height compensation values using screen controls (P2) until slight friction is felt when sliding the paper. This completes center point calibration.
4. Select auxiliary leveling [?] to calibrate 6 corner points. Adjust hand-twisting nuts under the heated bed. Slide paper until friction is detected and it can be pulled out but not slid under the nozzle.
5. After manual auxiliary leveling, select automatic leveling [?] from the menu.
6. The printer heats up: nozzle to 140°C, heated bed to 60°C (adjust bed temp based on filament).
7. Begin 36-point automatic bed calibration.
8. Perform Z-axis compensation: Place A4 paper between print head and platform. Adjust compensation value until paper can be pulled out but not pushed in.
9. Click the save icon [?️] to save settings.

Diagrams show UI steps for leveling and the A4 paper test. Note: The leveling sensor only detects metal plates; glass platforms may not work correctly.

Model (Operation) Testing

Printhead Feeding Verification

1. Insert filament through the detection sensor to the bottom of the printhead assembly.
2. Navigate: [Prepare] > [Extruder] > [Load]. Nozzle heats to 200°C.
3. Extrude filament material from the nozzle.
4. Clean melted filament from the nozzle and heated bed before printing.

Note: Extruder spring strength can be adjusted with an Allen Wrench (max 2.0mm). Clockwise rotation decreases strength; counter-clockwise increases it.

Printing Functional Test

1. Insert USB Drive into the printer's USB port.
2. Select [Print] from the main menu and choose a desired file.
3. When nozzle and heated bed reach target temperatures, axes will home and printing will begin.

Note: Observe the first layer. Cases A and C in the diagram indicate improper compensation settings. Adjust nozzle-to-bed distance during printing. Case B shows ideal settings.

Diagrams compare first-layer adhesion: A (nozzle too close, under-extrusion), B (ideal), C (nozzle too far, poor adhesion). Also shows extruder button function.

Resume Printing Function

Power Loss Recovery

The printer can resume printing after power interruptions or accidental shutdowns. Simply press "Resume" when power is restored.

Note: For best adhesion, the PEI plate should be fully heated. If the printer has been off for too long, models may dislodge easily, preventing resume functionality.

Filament Detection

The sensor alerts you to replace filament when it's not detected, preventing print failures due to insufficient material.

Software Installation

Tip: Copy all contents from the USB Drive to your computer for easier access.

The included "Slicer" software is a modified version of Cura. Using the ELEGOO version ensures maximum compatibility.

Installation Procedure:

1. Open the USB Drive, navigate to \Software and Software Drivers folder \ELEGOO Software, and double-click the ELEGOO Cura application.
2. Follow the on-screen prompts for installation.
3. Select the corresponding ELEGOO printer model (e.g., ELEGOO NEPTUNE 4 PLUS) to complete the settings.

Screenshots show the ELEGOO Cura installation wizard, including account setup and printer selection.

Instructions for Software Usage (ELEGOO Cura)

Software Usage Tips:

• Use the middle mouse wheel to zoom in/out and pan the platform view.
• Hold the right mouse button and move the mouse to pivot the model viewpoint.
• Right-clicking brings up a pop-up menu.

Model Settings

Configure individual slice settings for multiple models.

Support Structure Interception

Define regions to inhibit support material generation.

Preview Image Function

G-code files saved in TFT format can display thumbnail images of the model.

Language Selection

Change language via Preferences in the top menu bar. Restart Cura for changes to take effect.

Screenshots show the Cura interface, model manipulation tools, and language selection menu.

LAN(Network) Printing

The device supports WIFI and network cable connections. After connecting, check the IP address on the screen and enter it into a browser to access the machine.

Note: Your printer and computer must be on the same network segment. Ensure the printer's network port is connected.

Accessing the Printer:

• Using Google Chrome on your computer, enter the Printer's IP address (e.g., http://192.168.211.164) in the address bar.
• Press "Enter" to access the Printer's Network page.

Diagrams show network connection setup and browser access.

Network Interface Controls

Upon successful network access, the printer's interface (e.g., fluidd) displays various controls:

• Movement Control: Control print head movement along axes and set compensation.
• Fans & Output: Control printhead fan and lighting (on/off).
• Printer Limit: Set maximum acceleration (usually no modification needed).
• Temperature Display: Shows temperatures and heating status, with controls for preheating nozzle and bed.
• Console Display: Shows executed G-code commands and allows manual G-code sending.
• Task List: Drag G-code files from ELEGOO Cura for printing.

Screenshot shows the network interface with these control sections.

Mainboard Circuit Wiring Diagram

Diagram of the printer's mainboard, labeling various ports and connectors:

• Ports: LAN(Network) Port, USB Drive Port, TF Card Port, Type-C Interface, Screen Interface.
• LEDs: LED, LED1.
• Connectors: X/Y/Z/E/E1-Axis Stepper Motor connectors, Proximity Switch, Hotend Thermistor, Heat Break Cooling Fan, Heating Pipe, Model Fan, Heating Head Interface, Heated Bed Interface 1, Power Supply Interface.
• Labeled Components: Hotend Thermistor (TH1), Heated Bed Thermistor (TB0), X-Axis Limit Switch, Y-Axis Limit Switch, Filament Detector (DET1), Rear Cooling Fan/Model Fan (FAN2), Mainboard Fan/Heat Break Cooling Fan (FAN1), X/Y Accelerometer Interface (AC).

Diagram shows the mainboard with all labeled connections.

After-sales Service

The document includes an "After-sales service registration card" section for recording purchase details, printer information, and fault descriptions.

Official Website

Visit www.elegoo.com for more information.